Guida Just Getting Started

UFC lightweight Clay Guida won a close split decision over a talented Nate Diaz this past Saturday at UFC 94. Although he will graciously take the victory, he wasn’t too pleased with his overall performance on the night. Guida talks about where he can improve, Diaz’ dangerous ground game and his expectations for 2009.

“I wasn’t satisfied with my striking, it seemed like every time I’d throw a right or something, he would come in, a little more elusive, a couple more inches away from me,” Guida stated. “I’m 5’7″, I’m definitely not the tallest guy in my weight class, but we’re working on those hands.”

His hands did just enough against Diaz, allowing him to engage and take the Brazilian Jiu Jitsu wizard to the mat. Guida made the most conscious of efforts to stay active and high in the guard, avoiding Diaz’ lanky legs at all costs.

“I felt actually very comfortable in his guard,” Guida said about how quickly Diaz could end a fight. “Everyone knows his triangle, that’s his move and that’s his bread and butter, and we passed his legs. He probably outstruck me a little bit, but we got the big slam and we kept the fight where we wanted to.”

This was Guida’s third consecutive victory inside the Octagon, and the good news for his fans is that he promises to keep things rolling in the new year.

“Each one is more important than the last,” Guida said about the win. “It’s just a little hint of what’s to come in ’09.”